Over 200 species of hoofed mammals roam and pasture on every continent except Antarctica. Their numbers are staggering. Sheep and goats each claim populations over 1 billion. Cattle number 940 million with pigs close behind at 780 million. And there are also approximately 60 million horses worldwide. Hoofed animals, however, are a minority compared to the 6,450 mammal species that get around on claws and paws.

Yet these four species, along with poultry, provide most if not all of the animal-based protein consumed by humans. The animal protein market size is estimated to be $9.41 billion in 2024, according to India-based Mordor Intelligence. It is expected to reach $11.97 billion by 2029, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 4.92% during the 2024-2029 forecast period.

With these financial expectations in mind, it's wise food animal producers prioritize hoof health in their standards of care for the overall health and productivity of their animals. When hooves are kept in good condition, costs for treating lame animals are reduced and production losses are mitigated. “A lame animal is not only in pain, but it is an extra expense that most producers can’t afford,” Purdue experts emphasize. “By maintaining a sound hoof management routine, animal owners can reduce their economic losses and increase their chances for profit in the future.”

But providing effective hoof care can be tricky. “For starters,” says Anna O’Brien, DVM, a Purdue alum and a member of the Spruce Pets Veterinary Review Board, “the hard structure [of the hoof] is made of keratin, which is the same compound that makes up our hair and nails. And like our hair and nails, the hoof itself doesn’t have nerves and can’t feel pain.” So hoofed animals could be sustaining damage to their limbs before they know it.

Routine Hoof Maintenance Checklist

Cattle rely heavily on their hooves for various activities such as grazing, walking, and running. Neglecting proper hoof care can lead to serious issues like lameness, which not only affects individual animals but can also have economic consequences for the entire herd.

• Routine inspections are the cornerstone of effective cattle hoof care. Inspections should take place in a controlled environment, ensuring minimal stress for the animals. Look for signs that the animal is favoring a particular leg or reluctant to move, which could indicate hoof issues.
• Check for swelling, tenderness, or abnormalities in the hoof's shape. Carefully examine the interdigital space between the claws. It is a common location for foreign object to be stuck and leading to an infection.
• Maintain a clean outdoor environment making sure that areas where cattle roam are free of sharp objects, rocks, or debris that could cause injuries or infections.
• Regularly clean mud and manure buildup from hooves. Prolonged exposure can lead to conditions like foot rot. Mitigate areas with high moisture content – they can be breeding grounds for bacteria and fungi. Adequate drainage in barns and outdoor spaces is essential to minimize the risk of hoof-related diseases. Cleanliness creates a foundation for preventative care, reducing the likelihood of infections and providing your cattle with a comfortable and hygienic environment.
• Proper nutrition is an important but sometimes overlooked factor in maintaining healthy hooves. Provide balanced diets with essential nutrients such as zinc, copper and biotin. Zinc and copper play critical roles in enzymatic processes that contribute to hoof integrity. Biotin is essential for hoof horn quality. Consult with a veterinary nutritionist to formulate a diet tailored to your herd's specific needs. Regularly check the dietary content material of your feed and alter it primarily based totally on seasonal versions or adjustments withinside the herd's composition. A well-fed animal is better equipped to resist hoof problems and recover more efficiently from any issues that may arise.
• Regular hoof trimming is a proactive measure that prevents overgrowth and potential lameness issues. It promotes proper weight distribution and ensures that each hoof bears its share of the load, reducing the risk of long-term musculoskeletal issues. Frequency of trimming depends on factors such as the breed, age and environmental conditions. Trimming have to be done with precision, heading off overzealous elimination that would result in pain or bleeding. A professional trimmer is recommended.
• Proper walking and flooring surfaces can significantly impact hoof health. Ensure that the flooring in living spaces is not too abrasive, which can lead to excessive wear, or too slippery. Concrete floors can be harsh on hooves. Consider supplying softer surfaces in high-visitors areas, along with rubber mats or well-maintained gravel. These surfaces offer better traction and reduce the impact on hooves.
• Cattle diagnosed with a contagious hoof ailment should be isolated immediately. Equip your barn with quarantine tools and equipment to avoid cross-contamination. Consult together along with your veterinarian for steerage on precise quarantine protocols and remedy measures. Effective quarantine measures need to be a wellknown a part of a herd fitness control plan, imparting a shield towards the capacity outbreak of contagious hoof diseases.
• Monitor for lameness and subtle signs of lameness such as uneven gait, shortened strides and shifts in weight distribution. If lameness is detected, consult a veterinarian immediately for a thorough examination.
• Seek advice from a veterinarian or professional specializing in cattle hoof care. Regular consultations will provide insights into preventative measures, early detection of issues, and tailored care plans for specific herds. Professionals can offer guidance on advanced treatments and preventive measures.

   

  Sources:

  • Mordor Intelligence™ Market Research Company, Hyderabad, India, mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/global-animal-protein-market
  • A-Z Animals, Flywheel Publishing, Lakewood, CO
  • Ultimate Checklist for Cattle Hoof Care, Mwato Moses, DVM, Bivatec, Kampala, Uganda, Jan 4, 2024
  • Hoof Anatomy, Care and Management in Livestock, Purdue University Extension, 2004
  • Normal Livestock Hoof Anatomy & Basic Maintenance, Anna O’Brien, DVM, Hobby Farms, March  2024